Southampton have already turned down a bid of £20m but Koeman has hinted that Liverpool would have to pay more for the 25-year-old or structure the deal more to his club's liking.

"If they are interested, they have to come with a bid, and a good one, and then we can speak about that, because the player likes to move," Koeman told reporters after Southampton's 1-0 victory over Swindon on Monday in a pre-season friendly.

"Players have to be happy in Southampton - they have to fight for the colours of Southampton and, if not, okay, but always if there is a good bid on the table."

Despite talks progressing, Koeman denied a deal has been struck between Lovren and Liverpool.

Liverpool have already agreed to pay Southampton a combined total of £29m for Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana this summer and will take their deals with the South Coast club to around £50m if they sign Lovren. Koeman's club have also cashed in on Luke Shaw, who left for Manchester United in a deal initially worth £27m.